Assault trial of ex-teacher starts today

Opening statements are scheduled today in the Worcester Superior Court trial of a former Leicester Middle School teacher charged with sexually assaulting a 12-year-old female student.

David A. Gilman, 44, of Brookfield, is charged with child rape aggravated by age difference and three counts of indecent assault and battery on a child by a mandated reporter in connection with sexual assaults that allegedly occurred between Oct. 30, 2009, and Dec. 14, 2009, at the middle school.

Mr. Gilman, who taught band, chorus and drama to students in Grades 6-8, has pleaded not guilty to the charges. He had worked for the Leicester school system for 15 years.

He is represented by lawyer Michael G. Cashman. Assistant District Attorney Courtney Sans is prosecuting the case.

Mr. Gilman was initially placed on paid leave when the charges were filed against him, but has not been employed by the Leicester School Department since February 2010.

Judge Peter B. Krupp is to preside over the jury trial.

Mr. Gilman is facing a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence if convicted of any of the charges against him.